The Company Weekend: When one day isn't enough

Some goals just can't be achieved in an afternoon. If you truly want to connect your team, set a new strategic direction, or celebrate a special milestone, a company weekend offers what a one-day event can't: time, space, and deeper engagement.

A company weekend typically combines a substantive program (like workshops, strategy, or team building) with a festive or relaxed part. This mix offers something that separate team days or staff parties don't: you build relationships that go beyond the workplace.

What's the difference from a team day? A team day focuses on one specific goal during work hours. A company weekend goes beyond that: it creates a shared experience that connects the team on a deeper level. And the difference from a company outing? That's recreational and short. A company weekend is more strategic and intensive.

Which organizations are company weekends a great fit for?

A company weekend isn't always the perfect choice for every business or every situation. But it really shines in these cases:

Fast-growing organizations: If your teams are expanding quickly, a weekend is perfect for strengthening those connections.
After a merger or reorganization: Teams that need to come together need time, and a weekend can really speed up that process.
When there's a strategic change of direction: Combine a kick-off with a relaxed evening program to build support.
Management teams and boards: Perfect for smaller groups looking to reflect and plan together in a private setting.
As a reward: Celebrate an anniversary or a special achievement with a multi-day program.

Important: A company weekend really needs buy-in from everyone. Not everyone automatically wants to spend a weekend with colleagues, so a great concept will definitely keep that in mind.

The Program: Balancing Content and Relaxation

The real power of a company weekend comes from variety. A program that's all work can feel like a chore, and one that's all party might miss the mark on depth. Here's the ideal mix:

Day 1 — Connecting and inspiring:

Kick things off together with an inspiring speaker or workshop
Team sessions or breakouts focused on a strategic theme
Informal activity (walk, sport, local excursion)
Fun evening program with dinner and entertainment

Day 2 — Dive deeper and wrap things up:

Relaxed start with breakfast and reflection
Deep-dive session or creative workshop
Wrapping things up together with concrete agreements or a ritual

Live Impact designs a tailor-made program, perfectly aligned with your goals, target audience, and team dynamics.

Picking a venue for a company weekend

The right venue can make or break a company weekend. The best venues offer a mix of meeting facilities, overnight stays, and an inspiring setting. Think of:

Estates and country houses: green surroundings, tranquility, character — ideal for reflection and connection
Design hotels: modern, sleek, and with excellent facilities for presentations and workshops
Boutique resorts: intimate and exclusive, perfect for executive teams and management groups
International locations: for that extra special touch — imagine a weekend in the Belgian Ardennes or the German Eifel

Key things to consider when picking a location: accessibility, room layout (single vs. shared), dietary needs, and if there's enough space for both the serious stuff and the fun party program. Live Impact knows locations throughout the Netherlands and even abroad.

How much does it cost to organize a company weekend?

A company weekend is a bigger investment than a one-day event, but the payoff is much greater too. The costs depend on:

Number of participants: the bigger the group, the more rooms, catering, and logistics you'll need
Location: an estate in the Netherlands can vary greatly in price compared to a resort abroad
Program: external speakers, workshops, and entertainment each come with their own budget
Accommodation and catering: these are usually the biggest expenses for a multi-day event

Tip: chat about the options for the work-related expenses scheme (WKR). Some of the costs might be tax-deductible. Live Impact will provide a clear quote with all expenses transparently listed.

Handy tips for a successful company weekend

Planning a company weekend means paying extra attention to a few things:

Communicate early: give employees at least 6–8 weeks to block their calendars and sort out any personal commitments
Make it optional: Not everyone wants to spend a whole weekend with colleagues. Respect that and don't create any social pressure.
Offer free time: Don't pack every minute with activities. It's super important to allow for downtime and personal space.
Denk aan dieetwensen en allergieën: bij overnachting en meerdere maaltijden is dit extra belangrijk
Arrange transport: Shared transport really boosts the team experience and helps avoid any logistical headaches.
Evaluate afterwards: A company weekend is a big investment — so make sure to measure its impact with an evaluation.

Organizing a company weekend with Live Impact

A company weekend that truly makes an impact needs careful planning and a creative touch. Live Impact organizes multi-day corporate events that perfectly blend content with an amazing experience.

As an IDEA-certified event agency, we handle the whole process: from concept and venue to the program, entertainment, and on-site coordination.

Get in touch and tell us about your plans. We'll turn your company weekend into an experience your team will remember for ages.